Japan has relaxed its arms export controls for the first time in nearly a decade, enabling the sale of domestically produced Patriot missile defence systems to the United States. The move comes as part of Japan’s efforts to contribute to international peace and security, strengthen alliances, and align with allies like the U.S.
The new rule permits the export of the Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC3) system to the United States, marking Japan’s first export of lethal arms since World War II. This decision was reportedly made at the request of Washington, reflecting a shift in the U.S. strategy to seek support from allies for advanced weapons systems.
Japan’s defence industry, though relatively small, is set to benefit from this policy shift, while the government has also approved a record defence budget of $56 billion for the next fiscal year.